PCB Media Release

Lahore February 7, 2011: PCB terms the verdict against the 3 players as regrettable and a sad reality which must be faced. PCB has full confidence in the process followed by the tribunal culminating in the sanctions on the 3 players under the ICC Anti Corruption Code.

In August 2010, when this issue surfaced the 3 players were under contract with PCB. As their employer, PCB provided them with legal support in U.K at that time. However, after they were provisionally suspended by ICC under the Anti Corruption Code, the players had to face the tribunal in their individual capacity. PCB thereafter implemented the clause 4.6.4 of the ICC Anti Corruption Code which states that no player may play, coach or otherwise participate or be involved in any capacity in any International Match or any other kind of match, function, event or activity during the period of Provisional Suspension.

Chairman PCB Mr. Ijaz Butt said \'The time from August last when spot-fixing came to light, has been an extremely painful one for Pakistan cricket. I now hope that this unfortunate saga is put to rest and we can concentrate on cricket. We will continue to work with ICC on this sensitive matter in future also. We will also see how we can help the 3 players with their education and rehabilitation program.\'

Under the ICC Anti Corruption Code, the appeal before the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) has to be filed within 21 days by the players. PCB itself has no intention to appeal against the decision of the tribunal in the CAS.

The PCB is determined to ensure the threat of corruption is dealt with severely and will do everything in its power to ensure the integrity of cricket is protected. Mr. Butt said, \"Like all my colleagues in the ICC I am determined to maintain the integrity of our sport. This is fundamental\"

PCB will make further comments (if required) after reviewing the detailed judgment of the Anti Corruption Tribunal.